Global power sector emissions plateaued as wind and solar continue to grow
However, adverse hydro conditions–likely exacerbated by climate change–prevented emissions from falling in the first half of 2023.
Power sector emissions plateaued in the first half of 2023, with a slight increase of 0.2% compared to the same period last year, as wind and solar continue to grow. Wind and solar were the only electricity sources that significantly increased both their generation as well as share in the global power mix. Despite this, adverse hydro conditions–likely exacerbated by climate change–prevented emissions from falling. The deficit created by hydro, particularly in China, led to a small increase in fossil fuels. However, low electricity demand helped to suppress further emissions growth at a global level by reducing the consumption of fossil fuels. Falls in demand led to significant emissions falls in the European Union, United States, Japan and South Korea, while moderate demand growth in India led to slower emissions growth.
- Global power sector emissions plateaued
- 50 countries hit new solar records
- Historic fall in global hydro output
- Low demand growth worldwide
